Former Ondo State First Lady and Labour Party candidate for Owerri Federal Constituency in the 2027 House of Representatives election, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has been honoured with the “Beacon of Motherhood” Award by the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Owerri Archdiocese.
Anyanwu-Akeredolu received the award on Saturday at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, where she described the recognition as a call to greater service to humanity and the younger generation.
The Labour Party candidate said motherhood transcends biological childbirth, stressing that it also involves nurturing, protecting, mentoring, inspiring and creating opportunities for others to fulfil their potential.
She said her longstanding engagement with young people, particularly through the BEMORE Empowered Girls Foundation, had been driven by the desire to encourage girls to rise above societal expectations and limitations.
According to her, the philosophy of the initiative is encapsulated in the message, “Be More,” which she said encourages young people to become more than their circumstances and, importantly, to use their abilities to make a difference in the lives of others.
Addressing the youths of Owerri Archdiocese, Anyanwu-Akeredolu urged them to see themselves not merely as leaders of tomorrow but as leaders of today.
She encouraged them to acquire knowledge, develop strong character and embrace discipline, compassion and courage, while deploying their talents in the service of society.
The former First Lady also urged youths and women to take their civic responsibilities seriously by participating actively in the democratic process.
She called on eligible citizens to register to vote, obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards and participate in elections, stressing the importance of making their votes count.
Speaking against the backdrop of her political ambition, Anyanwu-Akeredolu, who is the Labour Party candidate for Owerri Federal Constituency, said she seeks to provide effective representation for the people at the National Assembly.
She said her intention was to be a voice for the people, represent their interests and work towards securing development and opportunities for the constituency.
The candidate, who is popularly known as Ada Owere I, also dedicated the award to women who, she said, quietly serve as beacons in their communities, including mothers, teachers, widows and mentors who open their homes and hearts to children and young people in need.
She acknowledged Aku Augustine, whom she described as a focused and religious young man from her hometown, Emeabiam, for facilitating the courtesy visit that eventually led to her invitation to the event.
As part of her contribution to youth development, Anyanwu-Akeredolu made a donation to CYON, Owerri Archdiocese, in recognition of the organisation’s role in nurturing and empowering young people.
She expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the organisation, particularly the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Engr. Vincent Ugochukwu Ezeakor; the Archdiocesan Youth President, Engr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka; and the Archdiocesan CYON Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Jude Chukwu.
Describing the award as “not a full stop, but a comma,” Anyanwu-Akeredolu said the recognition should serve as a reminder that there was still much to be done in supporting young people, empowering girls, strengthening families and serving communities.
She urged the youths to make a difference wherever they find themselves, saying they should start where they are, use what they have and serve with whatever gifts God has given them.
The Labour Party candidate secured the party’s ticket for the Owerri Federal Constituency House of Representatives race ahead of the 2027 general elections after initially seeking the party’s senatorial ticket.
